Authentic Tantric Perspective - Ancient teachings for the modern life

Ever wondered about all the sacred books of India. As how they are organized or linked together? These books cover every aspect of life – philosophy, religion, spiritual and yogic practices, social, fields of law, medicine, architecture, art, music and sexuality etc. It is impossible to name all the texts, but here are some important ones.

On the highest level, these books are divided into two categories

Shurti – It means directly heard or revealed scriptures to sages/seers, it includes following primary, foundational scriptural texts

Difference between Shurti and SmritiShrutis are considered author-less, they were transmitted verbally as it was received by Sages over the generations and fixed. They do not change and preserved in its original form. But Smritis are usually attributed to an author, written down but constantly revised. Smritis were considered fluid and freely rewritten by anyone in ancient and medieval India.

According to Yuga (Aga/Era - cyclic concept of time), some scriptures have more importance in that era. Following four categories are also described by Swami Yogananda in his famous book ‘The Autobiography of a Yogi’.

Shrutis – Satya Yuga (Golden Age) – Beginning

Smritis – Treta Yuga (Sliver Age) - Era ended with Rama

Puranas – Dwapar Yuga (Bronze Age) – Era ended with Krishna

Tantras - Kali Yuga (Iron Aga) – Currently we live in

Knowledge of these texts were passed down to generations through oral tradition for several thousands of years. However, it is estimated that historically Shruti texts were finally written down between 1700BC to 700BC, and majority of Smriti texts between 500BC to 500AD.